There will be no price increase in any seat category for the 2016/17 season and furthermore in recognition of the loyal support of current season ticket holders, a two-year price lock has also been announced for those that commit now.

Paul Dermody, head of commercial and marketing, said: "This is very positive news for the nearly 12,000 season ticket holders that we already have.

"Over the last 12 months we have taken on board the views of our season ticket holders and have also been in consultation with key stakeholders like the Official Leinster Supporters Club and we feel that the offering for next season is very competitive at a time when there is huge plans for Leinster Rugby on the field and indeed the RDS Arena off the field.

"We feel that we are at a point where we can reward our supporters and we feel that the package of benefits that accompany your Season Ticket is worth shouting about.

"First and foremost we appreciate the support of the 11,894 season ticket holders that we already have and there will be no price increase on the ticket they purchased last year and we can promise them no increase in the season ticket price for the next two seasons if they come on board early."

Dermody also gave an update on progress with regard to the redevelopment of the RDS Arena and changes to the plans as originally outlined in particular with regard to a cover for the North and South Stands.

"Over the next six months the RDS intend to submit the planning application for the new RDS Arena," he explained.

"As part of its plans the RDS is also examining the feasibility of covering the North and South Stands, something that our support base have been very vocal about.

Brightest

"Leinster Rugby is in a really good place on the pitch with some of the brightest, best and rising stars of Irish Rugby and we want Leinster supporters and rugby supporters in general to see just what Leinster has to offer."

Season ticket renewals for existing season ticket holders will remain open until March 21 and during this window current holders will have the option of keeping their current seats.

The public sale will start on Saturday, April 2 - the day of the Munster game in the Guinness Pro12 in the Aviva Stadium - and an 'Early Bird' offer will be available until June 3.

A dedicated website has been created to facilitate enquiries at leinsterrugby.ie/seasontickets, and that is also live as of this morning.